The Perfect One Day in Ghent Itinerary for 2026 (Free PDF!)
You could easily spend a few days just sipping coffee on the Korenlei, but if you don’t have that kind of time or want to take a day trip from Brussels, then even just spending one day in Ghent is worthwhile.
Ghent may have one of the most beautiful canal-side quays in Europe, and that speaks volumes considering my passion for networks of canals and boardwalks. Situated just a short 35-minute train ride from Brussels, you’ll find the Castle of the Counts, the Belfry of Ghent, and the iconic Korenmarkt square!
In this post, you’ll find everything you need to know about visiting Ghent for a day, from the best things to do, how to get around, practical tips for visiting, where to eat, and where to stay.
I’ve also included my own Ghent budget calculator to help guide how much money you’ll want to set aside for a day trip to the city as well as a DIY walking map and my free downloadable PDF 5-day Belgium itinerary below!
The Perfect One Day in Ghent Itinerary
Even if you only have one day in Ghent, you’ll be able to pack a lot of fun into your day. Most of the places I have listed below can be squeezed into one day, but you may feel a little rushed.
So, what I like to do when traveling is instead of rushing through everything to get everywhere (though we are culprits of this rather often), is I’ll tell myself “I’m going to come back.”
I truly believe that traveling is essential to have a firm grasp on the realities of the world, so, there is no reason I shouldn’t continue my travels in the future no matter what happens.
So, don’t worry about squeezing everything into your short Ghent itinerary, but instead think of a time when you’ll be able to return and spend more time in Belgium as a whole, including Ghent!
Vrijdagmarkt
Vrijdagmarkt is one of the main squares in Ghent’s historical center. It was originally named for its Friday markets (Vrijdag means “Friday” in Dutch) where you can still find outdoor stalls selling everything from unique textiles to food and clothing centuries later.
Over time, the market has scaled back in size and has begun to sell more modern items like iPhone cases, etc. in addition to traditional goods. While the market may not be selling as authentic Belgium souvenirs as it once did, it is no less fun to check out!
It’s a beautiful spot in town and is also home to some great restaurants and bars (though many in this area will be quite touristy and expensive) as well as charming outdoor cafes.
The area makes for some great people-watching as tourists make their way through the market as well as the perfect spot to enjoy a morning breakfast.
Vrijdagmarkt is also a great spot to begin your Ghent itinerary due to its central location enclosed by the Leie River.
Korenlei and Graslei
In the heart of Ghent, the two quays of Korenlei and Graslei sit across from each other right on the banks of the Leie River. Conveniently connected by the beautiful Grasbrug Bridge, this is one of the best parts of town!
At the meeting point of the two quays, visitors will find an array of outdoor cafes, hip bars, and trendy restaurants serving up some of the best food in the city.
You’ll also be exposed to an area of breathtaking beauty where you’ll be surrounded by medieval architecture, stone arch bridges, a lovely canal, and beautiful string lights in the summers and winters!
While this part of the city can sometimes be quite touristy, if you visit in the off-seasons as I suggested you’ll find some of the best scenery in Ghent!
Gravensteen Castle
The 12th-century medieval castle known as Gravensteen is the most popular tourist attraction in Ghent and is easily recognized across Europe.
But, there’s a dark history to this grand castle that many people are unaware of. Once a prison and mint, Gravensteen, also known as the Castle of the Counts, was home to Count Philip of Alsace who abused his power and enforced horrific interrogation methods on the inmates that were trialed there.
Prisoners were gruelingly tortured to confess their crimes, and many even faced fatal harassment. This lasted until the 18th century, but today, visitors can learn about the torture methods they used, the history behind the Counts that resided there, and how it came to be a cotton mill in the early 19th century.
Guided day tours are available as well as self-guided tours and audio tours. You can find more information at Visit Ghent on the history behind the castle, but the best way to learn about the events first-hand is to take a guided tour!
Walking Tour through the Medieval Neighborhoods
When doing a walking tour through Ghent, you can choose between joining a guided walking tour with a company or creating your very own walking tour with the use of a local map!
In my experience, I’ve found self-guided tours to be more rewarding since I can include only what I actually want to spend my time at and I can choose to skip whatever I’m not interested in.
But, that’s not to say that having a local guide who can tell you more about the history of Ghent and the local architecture, traditions, and Belgian culture isn’t an invaluable resource! Just be sure to do some research before choosing a guide, as not all are created equal.
Along your walking tour, be sure to check out Patershol – known as the ancient quarter for its medieval architecture and tight network of narrow streets, you’ll find cozy pubs and cool souvenirs here!
Additionally, the neighborhoods of Kouter for its expansive flower and plant markets and Prinsenhof for its 16th-century ancient palace ruins and charming residential houses without all of the tourists are definitely worth a small piece of your time in Ghent!
Take a Food and Beer Tour
If you’re going to Ghent or even Belgium as a whole, you shouldn’t deny yourself the fun of a food and beer tour! They range vastly from what foods they include like the traditional chocolates, waffles, and moules-frites as well as alcohol including beer, whiskey, and sometimes gin.
You can even find tours that allow you to cook with a local!
Take a peek at the tours below and see if any may be a good fit for you. They range from 1 hour and up and all offer exceptional reviews. I haven’t done all of these tours myself, but I have found that many of them are well known across Ghent.
Best Food and Beer Tours in Ghent
Sint-Michielsbrug and Saint Michael’s Church
Adorned with a beautiful statue of St. Michael, the Sint-Michielsbrug, or St. Michael’s Bridge, is one of the most famed stone arch bridges in the city.
It offers a fantastic vantage point overlooking the Leie River and provides visitors with one of the best perspectives of the Korenlei and Graslei quays!
Take some time to stroll over the bridge, capture a few wonderful photos, and then make your way over to the accompanying Saint Michael’s Church.
Easily seen from across the city, Saint Michael’s Church is recognized for its striking tower and gothic exterior. The exterior contradicts its interior which is embellished with beautiful artwork, large colonnades, and stunning stained glass windows.
This Roman Catholic church is a must-see when spending one day in Ghent, even if it’s only for a short period of time. The architecture and design will truly take your breath away even if you aren’t someone with a particular interest in cathedrals.
Take a Canal Boat Ride
If you’ve ever visited Amsterdam or Bruges, it’s likely you have at the very least heard of or seen a canal boat ride go by. And I’m here to tell you that this should be at the top of your list for things to do during your quick trip to Ghent!
A canal boat ride offers you a completely unique perspective on the city. From the water, you’ll be looking up at all of the beautiful architecture and cafes, and you’ll glide by many of the city’s attractions (like Gravensteen Castle).
You’ll also be rewarded with the opportunity to relax and rest your feet while sightseeing. We all know how running from place to place can be exhausting, so why not sit back and let someone else take the wheel?
That way, all you’ll need to do is take a picture when the prime moment presents itself. Taking a canal boat ride is a great way to see the city while catching your breath, take advantage of some unique photo opportunities, and experience the city from a different viewpoint!
Not to mention that you can usually find boats that will provide alcohol included in the price.
Map of One Day in Ghent Itinerary
The map below has everything that I just mentioned labeled for you, so it’s quick and simple to plan your walking route.
How to Get to Ghent
Owing to Ghent’s precise location directly between Brussels and Bruges, getting to this gothic Belgium city couldn’t be easier.
By Train
If you’re coming to Ghent from Brussels, hop on the train at Brussel-Centraal and wait until the last stop where you’ll get off at Gent-Sint-Pieters. The entire journey roughly takes about 37 minutes.
If you’re coming to Ghent from Bruges, similarly you’ll just get on the train at Brugge Station and stay on until you reach Gent-Sint-Pieters approximately 30 minutes later.
If you’re coming from outside of Belgium, consider booking a train on the Eurail! They offer thousands of different routes across Europe and can get you to Ghent in no time. But, be sure to take a look at what flights are available prior to booking if you’re traveling a long distance to Belgium.
By Plane
You can occasionally find great deals on both domestic and international flights in Europe that will save you a lot of time in comparison to taking the train.
Of course, if you’re already in Belgium, the train will be the fastest and most efficient method of transportation if you don’t plan on renting a car (not usually recommended in Europe).
How to Get Around Ghent
Since the city is covered in mainly cobblestone streets, thousands of pedestrians, and is divided by one-way streets and rivers, driving through Ghent can be a bit of a nightmare. Luckily for you, you won’t need to worry about renting a car if you’re visiting Ghent.
The city is easily walkable and you’ll find that most people (tourists and locals) get around by either walking or biking everywhere. For further destinations, the city’s public transportation system will get you there.
Affordable buses and trams line the city center and can bring you everywhere including the Gravensteen Castle.
Since you’ll be short on time, consider renting a bike for a few hours to get you around to all of the main attractions quickly. Then, when you want to head to the Castle, hop on the tram!
This way, you’ll be able to fit in everything you want to see in Ghent in one day, and you’ll still have plenty of time left over for enjoying the local cafes, bars, and restaurants in the evening.
Tips for Visiting Ghent
Even if you have visited Ghent before, there are a few useful tips below that you may find helpful to planning your Ghent itinerary! And if you haven’t, be sure to read through these tips before jetting off to the airport.
- Belgium uses the Euro and many people can speak Dutch, French, German, and English!
It isn’t uncommon to hear conversations happening in several different languages around you at any given time, so consider learning a few phrases in at least one of the aforementioned languages if you can. - Since you’ll be spending the majority of your day walking or biking around the city, be sure to pack a comfortable pair of walking shoes!
This one is key to a fun day in Ghent (nobody likes blisters while sightseeing.) - Depending on how much money you plan to budget for your trip, you may want to consider eating at smaller cafes or getting food on-the-go to save some money.
Ghent’s restaurants, especially in the historic center and along the Leie River, are typically quite expensive.
You can occasionally find a good deal, however, most of the time you’ll notice appetizers and entrees ranging between €10- €30 each. With the addition of a round or two of beers, it isn’t uncommon to go over €50 for two people even at lunch! - Lastly, unless you plan on completing an entirely self-guided Belgium tour, avoid renting a car.
This can become quite costly and owing to Ghent’s pedestrian-only streets and numerous one-ways, it usually becomes more of a headache than anything to have a car rental in Ghent.
Instead, opt for a combination of walking, biking, and public transportation to aid you in getting around the city! This will save you a considerable amount of money and a lot of stress in the long run.
What to Eat in Ghent
Did you know that the Belgian waffle actually originated in Ghent? Well, you do now, so it goes without saying that one of these sweet delicacies is a must when you are in town.
But, Belgians aren’t just known for their dessert crafting skills, but also for their rich and savory meals that date back for centuries – but, now with a modern twist. Below are some of the best local dishes that you should try during your time in Ghent:
✔️ Stoverij – This Flemish recipe local to Ghent is a popular favorite among the locals. Authentically made with dark beer or stouts, this hearty stew is full of tender beef and simmered until a thick, savory broth is created.
Often served with freshly made fries, this is the ultimate food for your soul!
✔️ Tierenteyn Mustard – This special condiment dates back to the 18th-century and is well known in Ghent for its distinctly bright and tangy taste.
Made from specially ground dark mustard seeds without the addition of preservatives, this unique sauce makes for a wonderful addition to any rich meal.
✔️ Mastel – This traditional bread also originated in Ghent and is known for its sweet, caramelized center.
The bread has a denser texture than most and is often sliced, covered in butter and brown sugar, then laid on a hot griddle creating the most wonderful caramel flavor.
Where to Stay in Ghent
I previously told you about some of the best neighborhoods to check out in Ghent, but what about where to stay? Especially if you only have one day, choosing a central accommodation that’s both charming and affordable can be difficult.
But, luckily for you, I have already done all of the work for you! Check out my preferred accommodations below where I have laid out the best places to stay in Ghent based on your travel style.
From budget to luxury, these are the best places to stay in Ghent for one day!
Budget
Hostel Uppelink ★★ – a bright and modern hostel located in the beautiful historic center of Ghent.
Hostel Uppelink offers its guests a unique stay where they can enjoy clean, traditional Belgian-style rooms, a buffet-style breakfast, and an affordable in-house bar.
Mid-Range
Hotel Orion ★★★ – a historical villa in the Millionaires Quarter of Ghent that is surrounded by lush gardens and effortless Belgian beauty. Guests are treated to a sumptuous indoor pool and sauna and have the option of enjoying a traditional Belgian breakfast.
Luxury
1898 The Post ★★★★★ – a prestigious luxury hotel in the heart of Ghent. Find vintage decor and antiques in every room, a hot breakfast, and a beautiful lounge to relax in during the evenings.
As one of the leading luxury hotels in the city, guests looking for the ultimate stay in Ghent surely won’t be disappointed.
Ghent Budget Calculator
Ghent can be a rather expensive city to visit, so I’ve created my own budget calculator to help you figure out how much money you may need for a full day in the city. Simply fill in the dropdowns below and click the button for your day’s budget!
Day Trips to Ghent
Day Trip from Brussels to Ghent
You might be wondering, “how far is Ghent from Brussels?” and “can I visit Ghent in one day from Brussels?”. If so, you’ve come to the right place!
Ghent is a mere 37-minute train ride from Brussels, so yes, you can easily wake up in Brussels and hop on the train to Ghent for the day before returning back to your accommodation in Brussels in the evening.
But, you may not want to! Many travelers regret this decision when they come to find how unique and charming Ghent is and wish they had planned to stay at least one night in the medieval city.
If you’re able to squeeze a day trip from Brussels to Ghent into your Belgium itinerary, consider booking at least one night in Ghent!
Day Trip from Bruges to Ghent
Opposite Brussels is the medieval capital of Bruges which is known for its extravagant, gothic architecture, and its mysterious, windy canals that cut through the city in random patterns.
If you’re already in Bruges, consider hopping on a quick 30-minute train ride to Ghent where you’ll be rewarded with similar, yet more vibrantly-colored, buildings and rivers.
These two Belgian cities are a classic pairing owing to their unique similarities and close proximity to one another. If you’re considering taking a day trip from Bruges to Ghent, I highly suggest that you do!
FAQ
Is Ghent, Belgium Worth Visiting for One Day?
Even though you may be short on time, visiting Ghent is absolutely worth just a quick visit. The town is overflowing with charm and character, so it would be a shame to not take advantage of this incredible Belgian place!
It’s also easily accessible from both the capital of Brussels or the medieval town of Bruges in well under an hour, so you could even visit Ghent for less than one day if that’s all the time you had.
Ghent is overflowing with history (take the torture chamber in Gravensteen Castle, for example), charm, and spectacular cuisine and while I can’t promise that you’ll be happy you chose to visit, I do believe that there is a very good chance you’ll be pleased!
Is One Day Enough for Ghent?
One day in Ghent is certainly enough time to spend there. The city is on the smaller side and extremely walkable, so it won’t take you a long time to get between most sights and attractions.
But, if you or someone you are traveling with would prefer to include a half or full-day trip to the Gravensteen Castle, then one day may not be enough for you.
Likewise, if you typically enjoy exploring interesting art collections and the exhibitions in the local museums when you travel.
So, if you prefer to include plenty of time at each attraction, want to spend an ample amount of time at the Gravensteen Castle, and would like to fit in some time for simply relaxing at a riverside cafe, then 2-3 days in Ghent may be a better fit for you.
However, even if you only have one day to explore Ghent, don’t fret. You will still be able to fit in many of the main sights, attractions, and some time at a cafe or two!
When is the Best Time to Visit Ghent?
Ghent, Belgium is a breathtaking city to visit year-round, but there are a few times of the year that I prefer over the others.
For instance, my favorite time to visit Ghent is in the shoulder seasons of spring and fall!
I find this to be when the weather is still comfortable (though there is a slightly higher chance of rain), most of the tourist prices for accommodations and flights have dropped significantly, and many of the tourists have left the city.
In the spring months of April through June, you’ll find thousands of blooming flowers creating a beautiful, vibrant cityscape. In the fall months of September through November, the fall foliage begins and all of the leaves turn gorgeous colors like yellow, orange, and red!
While the summers in Ghent are beautiful, they are relatively hot, flooded with tourists, and it’s also quite expensive to visit during this time, as well. Not to mention that you’ll be waiting in long lines for the major attractions and at most restaurants throughout the city.
The winters in Ghent are also beautiful! You can enjoy ice skating and Christmas markets and even the occasional snowfall, however, Belgium gets very few daylight hours in the winters so you better also enjoy curling up in front of a toasty fireplace with a glass of mulled wine.
All in all, the best time to visit Ghent is in the spring and fall when you can get a balance of reduced pricing, fewer tourists, more locals, good weather, and all the comforts of having the city to yourself.
Can You Do Bruges and Ghent in One Day?
Since these two medieval Belgian cities are so close to one another via train, you can easily travel to both Bruges and Ghent in one day.
They also have many similarities making them a great combination for a day trip! From their canals and gothic architecture to the food and the people, you’ll find many connections between the two.
However, even though the two cities are close to one another, whether you have enough time or not to see everything is entirely dependent on your travel style.
While I enjoy squeezing as much into my travel days as possible, many people do not, and that’s okay! If you like to take your time when visiting a new place, you may feel rushed trying to see both Bruges and Ghent in one day.
But, if you don’t mind skipping some of the smaller attractions or only seeing the main sights in each city, then one day in Bruges and Ghent could be enough time.
Is Bruges or Ghent Better?
In my personal opinion, I enjoy Bruges more, however, both cities offer a healthy dose of charm, history, and Belgian culture. Bruges, with its fairy-tale medieval architecture and picturesque canals, is like stepping into a time machine set to the Middle Ages.
Ghent, on the other hand, boasts a lively, modern vibe without losing its historical roots. Its vibrant nightlife, contemporary art scene, and student population lend it an energetic atmosphere.
When visiting small, Belgian towns, I felt like Bruges hit the nail on the head in terms of a real-life fairytale, but you may find Ghent’s trendy neighborhoods to be more your style.
Ghent is a unique Belgian destination known for its beautiful embankment on the Leie River that becomes overrun by tourists each and every summer. Home to stunning architecture, charming boat rides, and authentic Belgian cuisine, there’s no denying that Ghent is a leading destination in Europe!
People travel from around the world just to catch a glimpse of this breathtaking Belgian city, so why can’t you?
Ghent is a magical city that deserves even just a quick visit to witness all of its history and hear its medieval stories, so even if you’re considering spending just one day in Ghent, this guide will help you make the most of it.
